By A, KNA
Kiambu county government has intensified efforts to improve road infrastructure within Kabete Municipality following a comprehensive assessment exercise conducted this week.
Leading the inspection was the Acting Chief Officer for Roads, Julie Waweru, who spearheaded the initiative to identify critical areas requiring urgent rehabilitation and upgrading across the municipality.
The assessment exercise brought together key officials from the county’s roads department including Roads Director Eng. Joseph Kamau, Kabete Municipal Manager Joe Wachaga, the sub-county engineer, sub-county surveyor, and other technical officials.
The team conducted on-site evaluations of various roads to assess their current condition and determine intervention priorities.
The visit comes amid growing concerns from Kabete residents about the deteriorating state of several roads in the area, which have significantly affected transportation and economic activities, where many local roads had developed potholes and drainage issues, particularly following heavy rainfall experienced in recent months.
During the assessment, the officials inspected both major and minor roads, taking note of sections that require immediate attention.
The team also evaluated drainage systems, road furniture, and other infrastructure components essential for maintaining safe and efficient road networks.
“We have been struggling with the poor condition of roads in our area for quite some time now,” said Jane Mwangi, a local resident and businesswoman.
“Some roads have become impassable during the rainy season, affecting our businesses and daily movements.
Hence, we are hopeful that this assessment will lead to concrete action and improvements in our road network,” she said.
On his part, Peter Kariuki, a matatu operator plying routes within Kabete, echoed similar sentiments, adding, “The bad roads have increased vehicle maintenance costs significantly. We spend more on repairs, and sometimes we have to use longer alternative routes, which affects our operations. We welcome this initiative and look forward to seeing these roads rehabilitated.”
The county government is expected to use findings from this assessment to develop a comprehensive road rehabilitation program for Kabete Municipality.
The exercise is part of the county’s broader infrastructure development agenda, aimed at improving connectivity and supporting economic growth across all municipalities.
Officials have assured residents that priority areas identified during the assessment will receive immediate attention, once the technical reports are compiled and budgetary allocations get approved.